North to South India Tour Package

25 nights / 26 days

Starting from USD 2599 / person

This comprehensive North-to- South India Tour Package offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, historical exploration, and immersive encounters with India’s rich heritage and natural beauty. From the bustling markets and historic temples to serene backwaters and picturesque landscapes, each day promises a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Day 1 – Delhi:

Morning: Upon your arrival at New Delhi IGI terminal 3, our local representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

Afternoon: According to your international flight schedule visit the Lotus Temple, a renowned Bahá’í House of Worship with its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture. Subsequently, delve into the diverse cultural offerings at Delhi Haat, an open-air craft bazaar.

Evening: The day concludes with a visit to India Gate, a poignant memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers, providing a view of the Amar Jawan Jyoti. The evening allows for relaxation at your hotel.

Day 2 – Delhi:

Morning: After breakfast visit the grandeur of Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture. Traverse the lively markets of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere.

Afternoon: The afternoon unfolds with a visit to Bangla Saheb, a Sikh temple celebrated for its splendid architecture and community kitchen. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, often considered the precursor to the Taj Mahal. Next, see Qutub Minar, a 73-meter tall tower built in 1193, known for its intricate carvings and verses from the Quran.
Evening: Free to stroll in the bustling markets of Janpath.

Day 3 – Delhi / Agra:

Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, drive to Agra, the city most famous for being home to the iconic Taj Mahal. A drive through the mega highway reflects the changing image of the Indian infrastructure.
Afternoon: Upon arrival, check into your hotel and time to relax. In the afternoon, drive to the Red Fort, this red sandstone fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. Inside, you’ll find a maze of courtyards, mosques, and private chambers.
Late Afternoon: Spend some time shopping at Agra’s local bazaars. The city is known for its fabulous handicrafts, made of marble and softstone inlay work. The Mughals were great patrons of arts and crafts, and this is reflected in the city’s marketplaces.

Day 4 – Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur:

Morning: Early in the morning depart to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise to capture its marble facade reflecting the evolving hues of the sun. The monument is a symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Back to hotel for the breakfast.
Late in the morning drive to Jaipur making a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned Mughal city. Highlights include Buland Darwaza, the 54-meter high entrance, and the Tomb of SalimChishti, adorned with intricate marble screens.
Afternoon: Upon arriving in Jaipur, check into your hotel. Visit the Palace of Winds or HawaMahal. This five-story structure has 953 small windows, through which royal women could observe street festivals without being seen from the outside.
Late Afternoon:Visit the Laxminarayan Temple, commonly known as Birla Temple. This modern marvel made entirely of white marble, contrasts with the historic temples you’ve seen so far. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Lakshmi, and you can see various carvings depicting mythological events. If time permits, you can assist to the evening puja ceremony at the temple.

Day 5: Jaipur – Sightseeing

Morning: After breakfast at your hotel dead to visit the Amber Fort, a fusion of Mughal and Hindu architecture. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal, a room adorned with thousands of mirror tiles and colored glasses. The fort also houses Diwan-i-Aam, the Hall of Public Audience, featuring a double row of columns with elephant-head brackets.
On the way back to Jaipur, a brief halt to visit from outside the JalMahal situated on lake Mansagar.
Afternoon: Later explore the City Palace complex, which includes the Mubarak Mahal, now converted into a costume gallery displaying royal attires, and the Chandra Mahal, offering panoramic views of the city. Next, visit Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory that houses 19 architectural astronomical instruments.
End of the Afternoon: Walk around the local bazaars of Jaipur, such as Johari Bazaar, famous for precious gemstones, and Tripolia Bazaar, known for its ironware, utensils, and trinkets.

Day 6 – Jaipur / Pushkar:

Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, drive to Pushkar, a sacred city renowned for its Camel Fair. On the way visit the golden Jain Temple in Ajmer.

Afternoon: Upon arrival in Pushkar check in to your hotel, after a brief rest explore the tranquil village surrounding a sacred lake. Visit the famous Brahma Temple and witness the lively markets near the ghats.

Evening: Enjoy a stroll through the bustling and colorful markets of Pushkar.

Day 7 – Pushkar / Jodhpur:

Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Jodhpur, the “Blue City.”

Afternoon: Upon arrival in Jodhpur, check-in at your hotel. After a brief rest, head to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, a 17th-century marvel that dominates the city. Explore not only the fort but also the Jaswant Thada, a memorial built entirely of white marble.

Evening: Conclude the day with a visit to the bustling Sardar Market, renowned for its spices, textiles, and artisanal jewelry.

Day 8 – Jodhpur / Ranakpur / Kumbhalgarh / Udaipur:

Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, embark on the road to Udaipur. A stop is planned to explore the magnificent Jain Temple of Ranakpur and the imposing Kumbhalgarh Fort. Enjoy lunch during the journey.

Afternoon: Upon reaching Udaipur, check in at the hotel, and take some time to relax.

En fin d’après-midi: Attend a traditional dance and puppet show at Bagore Ki Haveli, a former princely residence situated on the shores of Lake Pichola.

Day 9 – Udaipur:

Morning: After breakfast start your exploration tour of the romantic city of Udaipur, often referred to as “The Venice of the East.” Visit the City Palace, a complex of several palaces built in 1559, and the Hindu temple Jagdish Mandir.

Afternoon: Dedicate the afternoon to further exploration of the charming city. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola for picturesque views.

Evening: Explore the local markets of Udaipur known for their souvenir shops and local craftsmen.

Day 10 – Udaipur / Mumbai or Delhi / Cochin:

Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Udaipur airport for your flight to Cochin via Mumbai or Delhi.

Afternoon: Upon arrival in Cochin, our local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Fort Kochi, the colonial quarter of the city.

Evening: Enjoy free time to explore the charming neighborhoods of Fort Kochi.

Day 11 – Cochin:

Morning: After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Built in 1555 by the Portuguese, this historic structure showcases the Indo-Kerala architectural style. Explore St. Francis Church and the Chinese fishing nets, iconic symbols of Cochin. St. Francis Church, built in 1505, has witnessed centuries of history, while the Chinese fishing nets add to Cochin’s picturesque waterfront.

Afternoon: Embark on an early afternoon visit to the Cochin Synagogue (closed on Fridays and Saturdays), also known as the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568, it is famous for its blue ceramic floor tiles and crystal chandeliers. Located in the heart of the city’s Jewish quarter, it reflects Cochin’s rich multicultural history.

Late afternoon: Attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional dance-theatre form from Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes and expressive facial movements.

Evening: Enjoy free time to wander through the charming streets of Fort Kochi.

Day 12 – Cochin / Alleppey (Backwaters Tour):

Day’s program: Depart after breakfast for Alleppey. Board a houseboat for a backwaters tour, experiencing local cuisine, riverside villages, and a magical sunset. Spend a peaceful night on the houseboat with dinner.

Day 13 – Alleppey / Munnar:

Morning: Disembark from the houseboat in Alleppey after breakfast. Depart for Munnar, a mountain resort known for its tea plantations.

Afternoon: Check-in at the hotel and visit the Tea Museum in Munnar to learn about the history and culture of tea in India. Explore the markets of Munnar in your free time.

Day 14 – Munnar:

Morning: Embark on a half-day hike through the tea plantations to immerse yourself in the tea culture and picturesque landscapes.

Afternoon: Return to Munnar and enjoy free time for relaxation.

Day 15 – Munnar / Periyar:

Morning: After breakfast, depart for Periyar National Park, an ecological gem in the Kerala mountains.

Afternoon: Check in at Periyar and visit a spice garden for a sensory experience, learning about local spices amidst lush greenery.

Late afternoon: Witness a captivating performance of Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala, showcasing martial skills, acrobatics, and athleticism.

Day 16 – Periyar:

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a rafting adventure on Lake Periyar, surrounded by lush forests, offering a unique wildlife experience.

Afternoon: Return to the hotel for relaxation, with optional free time for an Ayurvedic massage.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening at your hotel.

Day 17 – Periyar / Madurai:

Morning: Depart after breakfast for Madurai, known as the “City of Temples.”

Afternoon: Check in at Madurai and visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace and the Gandhi Museum, offering insights into India’s history.

Late afternoon: Explore the vibrant markets of Madurai.

Day 18 – Madurai:

Morning: Take an immersive walking tour through Madurai’s flower market with a French-speaking guide, discovering local life and tasting regional specialties.

Afternoon: Visit the Meenakshi Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Shiva and Mînâkshî. Stroll through the local markets around the temple.

Late afternoon: Attend the ceremony of the god and goddess’s bedtime at the temple.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening at your hotel.

Day 19 – Madurai / Chettinadu:

Morning: Depart for the Chettinadu region after breakfast, famous for the opulent houses of the wealthy Chettiar community.

Afternoon: Check in at a characterful house in the village of Chettinadu. Visit the village of Kanadukatthan and its Chettiar houses.

Late afternoon: Experience the solemn and spiritually enriching ceremony of the god and goddess at the temple.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening at your hotel.

Day 20 – Chettinadu / Trichy / Tanjore:

Morning: Depart for Tanjore after breakfast, a city rich in history and culture. Visit the Sriranganath Swamy Temple in Trichy on the way.

Afternoon: Check-in at the hotel in Tanjore, followed by a visit to the Art Gallery and an exploration of the local market.

Late afternoon: Stroll through the markets of Tanjore.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening at your hotel.

Day 21 – Tanjore:

Morning: Depart after breakfast for a visit to the Brihadeshwara temple, an exemplary piece of Chola architecture.

Afternoon: Visit the Maratha Palace and the Saraswati Library, which houses ancient manuscripts.

Late afternoon: Explore the markets of Tanjore.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening at your hotel.

Day 22 – Tanjore / Darasuram / Gangaikondacholapuram / Chidambaram / Pondicherry:

Morning: Depart for Pondicherry after breakfast, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Darasuram, Gangaikondacholesvarar Temple, and the Chidambaram Temple.

Late afternoon: Check in at Pondicherry and enjoy free time to relax.

Evening: Explore the markets along MG Road.

Day 23 – Pondicherry:

Morning: Embark on a rickshaw bicycle ride after breakfast to explore Pondicherry’s charm, including the Muslim Quarter and Goubert Market.

Late Morning: Visit Auroville for a unique meditation experience and shop for Auroville products.

Afternoon: Explore the markets along MG Road.

Evening: Enjoy a stroll along the seashore.

Day 24 – Pondicherry / Mahabalipuram (100km and 2 hours drive):

Morning: After breakfast, depart for Mahabalipuram, a small port city also known as Mamallapuram. It is famous for its groups of rock-cut temples and monuments, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check in at Mahabalipuram and take some time to rest.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, visit the Five Rathas, which are five monolithic temples sculpted in the form of chariots. Each “ratha” is unique and represents different Hindu gods and goddesses.
Late afternoon: Free time to stroll around the town of Mahabalipuram.

Day 25 – Mahabalipuram: Visit to Mahabalipuram

Morning: Early morning departure to observe the fishermen of Mahabalipuram returning from the sea at sunrise for an authentic experience of the local culture (self-guided tour). Return to the hotel for breakfast.
Late morning: Departure for a visit to the Shore Temple, one of the oldest stone temples in South India. This temple is unique in that it is one of the few located near the sea. It is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu.
Afternoon: Visit the monumental sculpture depicting the penance of Arjuna. It is an immense bas-relief carved into the rock, depicting various mythological and divine figures.
Then free time to wander and explore the markets of Mahabalipuram.

Day 26 – Mahabalipuram / Chennai:

Transfer to Chennai airport for your return flight for your onward destination.

End of our services

Your hotels or similar

• Delhi – Florence Inn
• Agra – The Retreat
• Jaipur – Mandawa Haveli (Heritage)
• Pushkar – Pushkar Fort
• Jodhpur – Devi Bhawan (heritage)
• Udaipur – Mahendra Prakash (heritage)
• Cochin – Dutch Bunglow (heritage)
• Alleppey – House Boat
• Munnar – Deepwoods Resort
• Periyar – Tree Top
• Madurai – GRT Regency
• Chettinad – Chettinadu Mansion (Heritage)
• Tanjore – Gnanam
• Pondichery – Villa Helena (heritage)
• Mahabalipuram – Mamalla Heritage

The price includes:

• A comfortable vehicle according to the number of participants, air-conditioned, and spacious for the journey (parking fees, fuel, road taxes, and tolls included).
• An experienced driver (accommodations, meals, and salary included).
• Accommodation in a “double” room with taxes and breakfast included.
• Electric rickshaw ride in Jaipur.Jeep ride to Amber Fort in Jaipur.
• Entrance tickets to Bagoreki Haveli and the traditional dance show in Udaipur.
• Boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur.
• Domestic flights between Udaipur and Cochin via Delhi or Mumbai in economy class.
• Boat excursion for exploring the backwaters in Alleppey.

Not included:

• International flight.
• Airport taxes.
• Lunches and dinners.
• Entrance fees to monuments.
• Drinks.
• Tips.

Good to know:
• A visa is mandatory for travel to India. We offer visa services for India, please consult us for the procedures.
• The tea museum in Munnar is closed on Mondays.
• Access to temples is allowed for foreigners but not inside sacred chapels.
• A video equipment fee may be required at the entrance of monuments.
• The Indian road network is of average quality, travel times may be longer than expected, but the quality of discoveries at every moment compensates for this slight discomfort.
• The synagogue in Kochi is closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Provide passport photocopies when making a reservation.
• Baggage weight on domestic flights is limited to 15 kilograms in the hold and 7 kilograms as carry-on baggage. A supplement of 3 euros per kilogram will be requested at check-in for domestic flights.
• This itinerary may be subject to minor changes depending on changes in airline and train schedules, hotel availability, and monument opening hours.
• We would also like to mention that our drivers are chosen for their professionalism, sense of service, availability, and competence. Unfortunately, not all of them are fluent in English. When they do speak it, they prefer to become guides.